Raingear - Appalachian Trail

imported
#1

What type of rain gear do you guys reccomend for AT hiking? Poncho or Rain pants with Rain coat? I know alot of you just go comando and dont worry about getting wet but, if you wanted to stay dry as possible give me your advice. Thanks!

Bartender

#2

Rain gear is nice when it is cold, you need it then. Nothing will keep you dry though. I hiked with rain pants and a top last year. I sent the pants home in the first month. When it starts to warm up you just have to keep your pack dry. I kept the jacket though the entire time. I might try a poncho though if i ever decide to do it again. <- just when it is warmer though

Jesse “Party Girl” Krout

#3

For me, these are the best rain gear available. Very effective to keep the rain out, yet the most breathable fabric I’ve ever used in over 30 years backpacking. Yes, they are less durable, but are cheap enough to replace more frequently than the expensive gear.

I’ve used the same generic “FroggToggs” (actually, more like DriDucks) for about 3 or 4 years now, with no rips/holes/punctures/leaks. Pretty darn good for a $29 rain suit.

Lyle

#4

I’ve tried both Frogg Toggs and DriDucks, can’t recommend them for a thru hike. The DriDucks tore the second or third time I used them, the Frogg Toggs were better, but still don’t have the durability needed.

I carry both a poncho and a Marmot Precip jacket. I don’t carry a pack cover, the poncho seems to do a better job of keeping the pack dry, but it does have its own problems.

Bear Bag Hanger

#5

Rain pants and a jacket double as protction against the weather and as a warm outer layer in camp. Poncho’s fall short in the latter regard. The name of the game in backpacking gear is multi-tasking, so I recommend a light paint/jacket combo.

Matt

#6

…knows rain gear;)

I seldom used rain gear in '05 because it made me sweat so much that I was more comfortable walking in the rain. The bad part is getting out of the tent and starting out in the rain. Once moving, getting used to it happens fairly quickly. This was true only until Maine and October. At that point the rain was icey cold and hypothermia was a major concern. My rain jacket kept my upper body warm and I just kept moving.

/s/ Nimblefoot

Rudolph the Red…

#7

I over heat hiking in rain geer. It’s hard to beat the Go-lite umbrella. They have one tha doubles as a stove.::cheers

Bill Damman

#8

I love the cheap ($1) ‘emergency’ poncho’s sold at Walmart and many grocery stores. Less than an ounce, less than a dollar, keeps you & your pack (if its small) completely dry up top where it counts and gives you plenty of ventilation. Just stay away from bush whacking with 'em and your good to go!

Happy Trails!

freebird

#9

Before my 2005 AT hike I got a great tip via trailjournals.com. On many rainy days, depending on temperatures, I just placed my Marmot Precip jacket over the top of my pack and shoulders, with the hood on my head.
The front was not fastened. It was easy to throw over pack and shoulders. Kept me mostly dry and did not create perspiration.

Seneca

#10

I would suggest a lightweight rain jacket such as Precip – mine is the North Face equal to it. Make sure it’s pit zips etc… Then, I have really enjoyed my rain skirt by ULA. It’s very light (only a few oz) and I don’t get nearly as hot hiking in it, but you’ll get hot in any rain gear.

Woody

#11

You absolutely need rain gear. What else are you going to wear in town when you are washing all your clothes?

;

#12

Sure can’t beat the Hefty Cinch Sack rain skirt. I first heard of it on Liteshoe’s Journal. Very light, cheap, and easily replaced. :tongue

Lady Di

#13

If you’re talking about a NOBO through hike in the “normal” season: I was glad I had good rain gear (light jacket and pants) in the early season, up until mid-May. There were a few decent winter storms to weather in April last year. After that, it was pretty optional. I kept a light silnylon jacket with me, but often didn’t use it. Cheap, light gear like Frogg Toggs should work fine on the AT, not much bushwhacking (a few blowdowns here and there).

Garlic

#14

i used a poncho that covered my pack also. was like walking in a tent. loved it. would not trade it for anything else. actually enjoyed walking in the rain or snow

pa kettle